Things To Do

The area is a haven for keen walkers, bikers, boaters, fishermen, and nature-lovers. Birds of prey can be sighted regularly. At night treats to see are owls and deer traversing the countryside.

One-third of Argyll is covered in forest; walking and cycling areas abound with marked trails through the forests and woods (the Caledonian Oak Forest is a nature reserve, with charcoal burners from the 18th and 19th centuries still in evidence). There are also several Munros* nearby for hardened walking enthusiasts. Bikes can be hired at the Dalavich Village Shop (4 miles away) - the area is ripe for exploring!

Boats can be hired from Dalavich and fishing in Loch Awe can reap salmon, sea trout, pike, wild browns, char, occasional large rainbows, and perch. (British record for wild brown caught in Loch Awe) Fishing by permit only - available in Dalavich.

Click on the map for a larger image

Historically, near Dalavich (4 miles away) is the 13th Century Innis Chonnel Castle which was the seat of the Campbell Clan before the first Inverary Castle was built in the 15th Century. Their Burial Island with its own 14th Century Chapel is also there. Also nearby is Kilchrenan church, which has been standing since the 13th century, although records date back to only the 14th century when it was referred to as the Church of Peter the Deacon. The present church which stands on the 13th century foundations dates from 1776 or later.

The seaside town of Oban is 24 miles away. It has many shops and several supermarkets. On the pier some of the freshest fish are sold via local fishing boats. Many tours to the islands leave from here, we recommend the Treshnish Isles tour which includes a visit to Fingal's Cave, and Lunga (bird sanctuary) populated with many puffins, kittiwakes, shags, razorbills, cormorants, seals, and more...

Taynuilt has a butcher's shop renowned amongst locals and visitors alike for its outstanding meat. Taynuilt also has a doctors' surgery, post office, hairdressing salon, a railway station and nine-hole golf course. Taynuilt Hotel serves excellent value meals. Nearby is Inverawe Smokeries - world renowned for wonderful smoked fish, cheese, etc. (see link at foot of page)

The Kilchrenan Inn (4 miles away from April Cottage) is a wonderful country pub. Perfect for a wee dram, warm and inviting even on the warmest (or coldest) of days, the Inn also serves delicious meals (call for opening times which vary depending on time of year). Also in the area for excellent dining is the Taychreggan Hotel and the Ardanaiseig Hotel. Four miles away in the other direction is the country cafe and post office and shop at Dalavich which serves meals, and provisions.

Just outside the village of Taynuilt is a treasure of a garden. Angus's Garden consists of nine acres of woodland and was created in memory of Betty Macdonald's son Angus. With stunning views, its most prominent feature in the spring are the many beautiful rhododendrons and azaleas. A large pond is home to swans and ducks. This tranquil area has three colour coded walks. From the village of Taynuilt take Glen Lonan Road, turning by Taynuilt Hotel, approx 2 miles on the right. For more information on gardens in Argyll, click on the following link: http://www.gardens-of-argyll.co.uk/

Enjoy the countryside and respect its life and work
Guard against all risk of fire
Fasten all gates
Keep dogs under close control
Keep to public paths across farmland
Use gates and stiles to cross fences, hedges and walls
Leave livestock, crops and machinery alone
Take litter home
Help to keep all water clean
Protect wildlife, plants and trees
Take special care on country roads
Make no unnecessary noise

Forest Recreation & Walks

Dunstaffnage Castle

Oban and Lorn Tourism Association

Mull

Inverawe Smokeries

Castles In Argyll And Bute

Kilmartin House - archeological museum

TSMV Chalice - diving and wildlife trips

Kintaline Plant Centre

David Sturrock Yachting, - Sailing Tuition

Puffin Dive Centre

Oban distillery